Sir Patrick Stewart boldly battles supersewer

Star Trek's Captain Jean-Luc Picard told today of his fears that drilling for London's supersewer could "devastate" the peaceful atmosphere of the Thames.

Actor Sir Patrick Stewart is backing a campaign against plans for an entrance to the Thames Tunnel at Chambers Wharf in Bermondsey.

Thames Water wants to use the site as a connection point to other parts of the tunnel, which is designed to stop millions of tonnes of sewage flowing into the river.

Sir Patrick said it would "transform this very pleasant, tranquil area into an industrial site for seven years", adding: "Downstream from Tower Bridge on the south side of the river is one of London's big success stories.

The regeneration here is extraordinary." He is backing the Save Your Riverside campaign, which says alternatives should be considered.

Opposition continues to grow against work in Carnwath Road, Fulham. Boris Johnson has written to water minister Richard Benyon, urging Thames Water to extend the consultation period to the end of March.

A Thames Water spokesman said: "No final decisions have been made yet. Our consultation runs until February 10 and we welcome feedback."